Research College of Nursing and Research Medical Center Open Area's First Dedicated Education Unit

Research College of Nursing (RCN) and Research Medical Center (RMC) have partnered in opening the area’s first Dedicated Education Unit (DEU). A DEU is an innovative model of clinical instruction that capitalizes on the expertise of both clinicians and faculty. DEUs were developed in Australia and launched in the United States at the University of Portland in Oregon in 2003.

“The partnership between Research College of Nursing and Research Medical Center is mutually beneficial. As the ICU Director, I am committed to preparing the next generation of nurses while offering my staff with opportunities for professional growth” said Darinda Reberry, RMC’s ICU Director, who collaborated with Dr. Rebecca Saxton, RCN faculty, in this initiative.

Seven of RMC’s ICU nurses were trained as DEU clinical instructors and have assumed the responsibility for clinical teaching at the bedside. ICU Staff Nurse and DEU Clinical Instructor, Ashley Doyen, stated “This has been a truly rewarding experience. I have been able to watch my students learn and grow. The DEU is a wonderful concept I wish was available when I was a student.”

The clinical instructor training was provided by RCN faculty who continue to support the staff nurses in their use of evidence-based teaching strategies. “The DEU training has helped me become a better teacher. By having the same students each week, I can provide constructive feedback and help them set goals to build upon their learning experiences” said Jessica Winslow, ICU Staff Nurse and DEU Clinical Instructor.

Sixteen RMC students are participating in the DEU this semester. Junior student, Eva Rensing, stated “Working one-on-one with a nurse who wants to teach has been an awesome experience. I have learned so much as a student in the DEU”. Minh-Anh Pham, added, “I appreciate that my school fosters a spirit of academic excellence and am honored to a part of this program. I am so excited for future students at RCN to have the same opportunity”.

The first rotation was a tremendous success. Plans are under way to continue the partnership and expand the model to other units at RMC.

Neuro ICU update! Research Medical Center is constructing a 12 bed Neuro ICU. Drywall has been installed and we are moving right on track for our October 2018 opening! We look forward to keeping you updated as construction continues.